If you’re hunting for a jaw-dropping dessert that’s as show-stopping as it is delicious, you’re in for a treat with Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake. This incredible cake layers playful raspberry jam goodness into decadently soft red velvet, then tops it all off with cheesecake pudding, pillowy whipped cream, and vibrant fresh raspberries. One bite and you’ll taste how the tangy berries and rich cake swirl together for a flavor experience that’s pure celebration—perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any moment you want to win over a crowd!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this dessert is that every ingredient pulls its weight, from the bold color of red velvet to the creamy pudding and the playful pop of raspberry. It’s a handful of pantry staples working in harmony to make a cake that tastes as good as it looks.
- Red velvet cake mix: Your shortcut to a fluffy, vibrantly colored base with hints of cocoa and that irresistible moist crumb.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Essential for bringing the cake mix to life and achieving that signature tender texture.
- Raspberry jam or preserves: Adds sweet-tart berry flavor and a striking visual as it seeps into the cake’s pockets.
- Instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding mix: Whipped with milk, this becomes a dreamy, creamy layer that takes the cake straight to dessert heaven.
- Cold milk: Works its magic with the pudding mix to create a luscious, spreadable filling.
- Heavy whipping cream: Whipped into soft peaks, this gives you that luxurious homemade topping.
- Powdered sugar: Just a touch, for gentle sweetness and smoothness in the whipped cream.
- Vanilla extract: Rounds out the whipped cream with warm, welcoming flavor.
- Fresh raspberries: They don’t just brighten the cake; their freshness ties the whole dessert together.
- Optional white chocolate shavings or sprinkles: These make every slice a little extra—all about that “wow” presentation!
How to Make Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions, adding the eggs, oil, and water as directed. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan, smoothing it out evenly. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—your kitchen should fill with that classic cake aroma! Once baked, let your cake rest and cool for about 10 minutes. This moment is golden for the perfect poke.
Step 2: Poke and Fill with Raspberry Jam
With the cake still warm, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes all over the top, spacing them out for even coverage. Warm the raspberry jam in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, just enough so it can easily pour. Slowly drizzle the jam over the cake, letting it seep into every pocket. This move creates a marbled, juicy effect throughout every slice.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheesecake Pudding Layer
In a medium bowl, whisk the instant pudding mix and cold milk together for about two minutes until it thickens. The pudding will become glossy and smooth. Carefully spread this over your fully cooled cake. Watch how the creamy layer sails over the glowing red base—you’ll know right away this is going to be special.
Step 4: Whip and Add the Dreamy Topping
In another bowl, whisk the heavy whipping cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until you get beautiful, stiff peaks. This can be done with an electric mixer or by hand if you’re feeling ambitious! Spread the whipped cream over the pudding’s surface in luscious swirls, going right to the edges so every bite gets a cloud of cream.
Step 5: Decorate and Chill
Scatter fresh raspberries generously over the whipped cream, and if you want to go that extra mile, sprinkle with white chocolate shavings or colorful sprinkles. Pop the cake in the fridge for at least two hours (overnight is even better!) to let the flavors meld and the layers set. The anticipation is all part of the fun—it’ll be worth the wait!
How to Serve Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake
Garnishes
The crowning glory for this cake has to be the fresh raspberries—nothing beats their bright, tart flavor against the creamy topping. For extra “oohs” and “aahs,” try delicate white chocolate shavings or pretty pastel sprinkles, which not only elevate the flavor, but make every slice look party-ready.
Side Dishes
This dessert is rich and festive all on its own, but if you want to go all out, serve each slice with a small scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of raspberry coulis. Paired with a sparkling rosé or a mug of fresh-brewed coffee, Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake will truly be the star of your table.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve squares of this cake right from the pan for a casual vibe, or cut neat slices and arrange them on a tiered cake stand for extra drama. Try serving individual portions in small glass jars for parties—they look gorgeous and are perfect for picnics or showers. A light dusting of powdered sugar just before bringing it out will impress every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have them!) should be covered tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake keeps beautifully for up to 3 days, with the flavors deepening as it rests.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, the cake base poked and filled with raspberry jam can be frozen (without toppings). Wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before finishing with pudding and whipped cream for a freshly-made taste and texture every time.
Reheating
There’s no need to reheat this cake; in fact, it’s best served chilled! But if you’d like to take the chill off slightly, let individual slices sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. That way, every bite is supremely creamy and not too cold.
FAQs
Can I use homemade red velvet cake instead of a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have a favorite from-scratch recipe, go ahead and use it. Just make sure you bake it in a 9×13-inch pan so you have the right foundation for all those luscious layers.
Is it possible to use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries work well for the topping. Thaw them first and drain off any excess liquid to prevent the cream from getting watery—they’ll add the same beautiful tang and color!
What if I don’t have cheesecake pudding mix?
Vanilla pudding mix is a fantastic substitute if you can’t find cheesecake flavor. The result will still be luxuriously creamy and complement the raspberry jam perfectly.
Can I make Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake in advance?
This cake is actually even better if made ahead! Assemble the full dessert, cover, and chill in the fridge for several hours or overnight. The flavors blend together and every layer stays moist and delicious.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?
To keep your cake from getting overly soggy, make sure the jam is just warmed, not hot, and allow the cake to cool completely before adding the pudding layer. A quick chill to set the layers keeps every bite perfect!
Final Thoughts
You’re just a few simple steps away from delighting everyone at your table with Luscious Red Velvet Raspberry Poke Cake. Whether it’s for a birthday bash or a simple treat-yourself moment, this cake promises crowd-pleasing flavor in every deliciously creamy bite. Give it a go—you (and your lucky taste testers) will swoon!
